Santa Claus Shuffle - Portsmouth
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Santa Claus Shuffle - Portsmouth
The Santa Claus Shuffle is an annual community running event held in Olde Towne Portsmouth with activities centered at the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion, 16 Crawford Circle. The event for 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, December 12, and offers race routes through the historic seaport area.
The event includes two distances:
- 5K race
- 1 Mile fun run
Race day features include a coffee and hot chocolate bar, a DJ, appearances by Santa and Ms. Claus, a photo booth, costume participation, and face painting. The event offers "Bib Power" benefits with special deals at participating local businesses when participants show their bibs.
Awards and participant items are provided for registrants: finisher medals for 5K participants, t-shirts while supplies last, refreshments provided by community partners at no charge, and a participation award for the 1 Mile. 5K awards list overall top male and female winners in each age category.
Community and charitable activities are integrated with the event. Fundraising options include creating personal fundraising pages under the "Become an Elf" program and a Stocking Stuffer Drive. Funds and community support are used by the organizing foundation to provide quality-of-life resources and experiences for youth, such as clothing for interviews, tutoring, independent living skills training, team-building activities, and mentoring. Sponsorship opportunities and in-kind donations are part of the event structure. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
